Wichita City Council members have given unanimous approval to a design concept and a budget for improvements to Clapp Park at Harry and Oliver.

The city adopted a master plan for the park in 2021, after closing the L.W. Clapp Golf Course and looking at the development of park space with playgrounds and other enhancements.   Park and Recreation Director Troy Houtman said the original master plan had a price tag of $25 to 30 million, so it had to be scaled down.

The city is now planning for bridge and creek improvements, an inclusive playground and a dog park with a connected parking lot.  The city worked with the architectural firm of Confluence and also talked with agencies serving the disabled to get ideas for the playground.  Staff also got input from students from Colvin and Griffith elementary schools.

Houtman said there may also be enhancements to the disc golf course and the park will continue to be used for cross country events by Wichita State University and high school teams.  Council member Mike Hoheisel said the park will be something great for south Wichita and it will give everyone a place they can go to.

The Council approved a total budget of $6.1 million along with the design concept.